Course Syllabus:

• Principles of Programming Languages
• Computer Science 3368
• 2:30-3:45pm Halsell 340

Instructor:

• Dr. Maury Eggen
• Dr. Eggen's Home Page

Office:

• Halsell 339A

Fall 2009 Office Hours:

• MWF 8:30-9:30
• MWF 10:30-1:30
• MW 3:45-4:30
• Others by appointment

Textbook:

• Robert W. Sebesta, Concepts of Programming Languages, Addison Wesley, Ninth Edition

Course

• This course is an introduction to the syntax and semantics of programming languages. As such, it will include a study of data structures and control structures, proof of programs, comparison of functional and imperative programming languages, parameter passing, storage allocation schemes, and concurrent language features. Prerequisite: CSCI 2320 or consent of instructor.

Course Goals and Objectives:

• To learn an increased capacity to express ideas in a programming language
• To gain an improved background for choosing an appropriate programming language
• To gain an increased ability to learn new programming languages
• To learn better implemetation skills
• To gain an increased ability to design new programming languages

Laboratory problems:

• The laboratory work in this class will consist of examinations held weekly, with periodic laboratory exercises. A significant final project will be required. The details will be provided in class.

Grades:

• The grades in this class will be determined by the above mentioned exams, homework laboratories and final project. Point values will be assigned depending on the difficulty of the project or assignment. The final examination as scheduled by the university will be used for presentations of final projects. Grades will be a simple percentage, points earned divided by points possible.

• Letter grades will be assigned according to the following scale:
  • 90-100 -- A
  • 80-89 -- B
  • 70-79 -- C
  • 60-69 -- D
  
  
• Plus and minus grades assigned in marginal cases. I advise you to keep a track of your scores so you know where you stand in the class at any time.

Some Notes of Importance:

• Regular class attendance is required. Each unexcused absence may deduct one percentage point from your final average. Excessive absences will be reported to appropriate university officials and may cause you to be (involuntarily) withdrawn from the class. Homework assignments are expected complete and on time. If you keep up you will have a better chance to be successful in this class, but if you fall behind you will have difficulty catching up. Make sure to contact your instructor if you are having difficulty.

• Homework laboratory submissions that are identical beyond coincidence are in violation of the Academic Integrity policy of the university and will result in disciplinary action, including, but not limited to a failing grade on that assignment for all parties involved. You are responsible for the security of your work, both electronic and hard copy.

• Discussion of the homework assignments between students is encouraged, but when it comes time for the final submission, make sure it is your own work. You are cheating yourself if you get the program from some source other than creating your own.

• Expect an examination once per week. These exams will usually be given on Mondays and will cover the previous week's work. Exams will be taken when scheduled and will not be made up. The only exceptions to these policies is for University sanctioned activities or illness and require a note from your supervising professor (coach) or doctor. If you have unusual circumstances (as we all sometimes do) please discuss these with your instructor in advance.